It’s definitely summertime across the Central Coast, as thousands flock to our beaches, waterways and pools to cool off from the heat.

The Coast is a popular spot for holiday-makers which sees more people at our beaches, in our parks and on the roads. We want to make sure residents and visitors alike stay safe in the water and on the roads this summer.

As we all escape to our favourite swimming spot, it’s a timely reminder to make sure children are supervised at all times – whether you are on the Coast, or certainly anywhere near water.

In the pool
There have been a number of unfortunate backyard drownings reported in NSW already these holidays, which is shining a spotlight on the importance of pool safety, and in particular, the need to be vigilant about watching children anywhere near water.

Did you know all pools must be securely fenced, even those blow up ones bought from retail stores?

As children can drown in as little as six centimetres of water, these rules are in place to help reduce the risks of drowning.

Any pool that can hold more than 30cm of water requires a fence and Council approval to avoid any fines. This is a NSW Government regulation enforced by local Councils across the state.

Also, pool owners need to ensure the fence is secure and the gate and latch are in working order at all times. If you are not sure of your responsibilities as a pool owner, go to the NSW Fair Trading website – fairtrading.nsw.gov.au – or contact Council directly.

At the beach
Keen to test out your new surfboard or swimmers at the beach? Make sure you do it at one of our 15 popular patrolled ocean beaches where you will be in safe hands with our lifeguards (Monday-Friday) and volunteer lifesavers (weekends and public holidays).

Our Lifeguards will also continue to patrol Budgewoi Beach seven days a week, 9am-5pm, until Sunday 29 January, with a focus on the flagged area.

There are a few simple rules to help keep you safe on our beaches: swim between the red and yellow flags, read and obey water safety signs and never swim under the influence of drugs and alcohol – and encourage your family and friends to do the same.

If you do find yourself in trouble, stay calm, float with the current, raise your arm and call for help.

You can find out about the current surf conditions or how to stay safe at our beaches by asking one of our friendly Lifeguards or volunteer Lifesavers, who will be only too happy to help.

We also have a number of indoor and outdoor public pools, leisure centres and ocean baths patrolled by lifeguards across the Coast - these are another great, safe option if you are looking to beat the heat.

Riding around the Coast
It’s also important we keep our kids safe on the roads and pathways, especially when they are keen to take their new Christmas presents for a spin.

Make sure they are wearing a helmet, and any other protective gear, and take them to one of our skate parks and BMX tracks where they can test out their new bike, scooter or skateboard in a safer environment.

There are more than 20 parks across the Coast that cater for a range of abilities from beginner to pro – including the biggest skate place in our region, Bato Yard, which is located opposite Bateau Bay Square shopping centre.

Alternatively, we have more than 150 kilometres of shared pathways which make it safer for pedestrians to get around, while protecting and showing off the Coast’s natural beauty.

Shared pathways are wider than a normal footpath to allow for more users - whether you walk, run, ride, jog, skate or stroll, there’s bound to be one near you.

With all the extra holiday traffic on our roads, these shared pathways are the best and safest option to help you get around.

We are lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world with great natural and man-made facilities, and we want locals and visitors alike to enjoy them safely.

Happy New Year!